And why would they shy away from their perceived shortcomings when their multidimensional skill sets are a major reason why the Patriots are 7-2?

I found it interesting the only one who claimed to be taller than his listed height was Branch, also the only one of the three to have been drafted and never waived. Branch is listed at 5-foot-9, but contended he has shorted an inch all these years.

Maybe because Welker and Woodhead are survivors they're more willing to wear their smallishness like badges of honor.

Woodhead not only embraced his measurements, but he also confessed to be shorter than advertised. The New York Jets -- before they waived him -- listed him at 5-9.

"Heart -- it's all heart, work ethic," Branch said. "It's all about what you put in during the offseason. Everybody thinks you've got to be tall, strong, you've got to be fast to play the game, and it's not that way."